What action must be taken if an emergency eye wash station does not work properly?

In the event that an emergency eye wash station is not functioning properly, the immediate step to take is to report the issue right away. This is crucial because malfunctioning eye wash stations pose a significant risk to individuals who may need to use them in an emergency. Time is of the essence in situations involving eye injuries, and delays caused by unreported issues could lead to severe consequences for affected individuals.

By reporting the malfunction, appropriate personnel can be alerted to the problem, ensuring that it is prioritized for repair. This action serves to enhance the safety of the workplace, as it allows for a swift response to restore the eye wash station’s functionality, thereby maintaining a critical part of safety protocols.

In contrast, utilizing another station may not be feasible if one is not available nearby or accessible in time. Trying to fix it yourself could lead to further complications or accidents, especially if the repairs require specialized knowledge or tools. Waiting for maintenance without having reported the issue could result in unnecessary delays in resolving the problem, thereby compromising safety.